Valve's recent SteamOS 3.6.9 Beta update, nicknamed "Megafixer," introduces crucial support for ROG Ally keys, marking a significant leap towards broader third-party device compatibility. This expansion, confirmed by Valve designer Lawrence Yang, signifies a long-held ambition to extend SteamOS beyond the Steam Deck.

The update, currently available for Steam Deck Beta and Preview users, includes numerous fixes and improvements, but the ROG Ally key support is particularly noteworthy. It's the first time Valve has publicly acknowledged supporting a competitor's hardware in their patch notes, suggesting a more open future for SteamOS.

Yang's comments to The Verge confirm Valve's ongoing efforts to enhance SteamOS's compatibility with additional handheld devices. While ASUS hasn't officially endorsed SteamOS for the ROG Ally, and full functionality remains in development, this update represents substantial progress.

Previously, the ROG Ally functioned primarily as a controller within the Steam ecosystem. This update improves key mapping, allowing for better integration of the Ally's controls within SteamOS. However, YouTuber NerdNest reports that full functionality isn't yet realized, even with the latest beta.

This development could revolutionize handheld gaming, potentially making SteamOS a viable operating system for various handheld consoles. Although the immediate impact on the ROG Ally is limited, this update is a pivotal step towards a more versatile and inclusive SteamOS ecosystem, fulfilling a long-standing Valve objective.